Planning for Reliable Operations
NREL studies how to plan for reliable grid operations at all scales and ensure a stable and efficient power supply.
Capabilities
- Planning, evaluation, and optimization of energy systems
- Analyzing grid technologies and infrastructure
- Modeling and situational awareness
- Grid stability analysis
Operations Planning Tools
NREL develops advanced planning tools that model infrastructure systems across various spatial and temporal scales. These tools forecast demand, optimize resource utilization, and enhance grid efficiency. From sophisticated simulations to artificial intelligence algorithms, operations planning tools play a pivotal role in developing flexible, reliable power systems. Explore how NREL uses Sienna on GitHub to revolutionize power grid management.
Distributed Energy Resources as a Grid Service
The local distribution system is no longer a passive delivery system. Distributed energy resources, such as energy storage and virtual power plants, actively participate in grid services—and NREL’s research reflects this shift. NREL examines how these resources can support grid reliability and become key players in orchestrating a more resilient grid.
Extreme Events and Contingency Planning
The power grid faces myriad challenges, from severe weather to unexpected system failures. NREL studies contingency planning strategies to mitigate the impact of extreme events on grid operations. Researchers analyze potential vulnerabilities, develop contingency plans, and implement resilient measures using the U.S. Department of Energy's North American Energy Resilience Model to help the grid withstand and recover from unforeseen disruptions. NREL also uses this model to take proactive measures in strengthening grid reliability against malicious attacks and environmental hazards.
Modernized Grid Stability
Grid stability is the bedrock of reliable power system operations. NREL explores the changing landscape of maintaining stability with more inverter-connected resources and fewer synchronous machines. This research includes studying the intricate details of inverter controls and simulating large-scale grid stability under various operating conditions using Sienna\Dyn on GitHub. NREL also studies the latest developments in energy storage and renewable energy deployments on IEEE Explore and develops new computational methods to safeguard the grid from disturbances.
Publications
Transient Simulations With a Large Penetration of Converter-Interfaced Generation, IEEE Electrification (2025)
Small-Signal Stability Impacts of Load and Network Dynamics on Grid-Forming Inverters, IEEE Explore (2024)
Solving Unit Commitment Problems With Demand Responsive Loads, IEEE Explore (2024)
Beyond Expected Values Evolving Metrics for Resource Adequacy Assessment, Cigre Science and Engineering Paris Session (2023)
Contact
Group Manager and Senior Researcher, Grid Operations Planning
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Last Updated June 13, 2025